Lionel Messi Uncertain About Participation in 2026 FIFA World Cup

Argentina's football icon, Lionel Messi, has not dismissed the possibility of participating in the 2026 FIFA World Cup which will be co-hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada. However, the legendary player admits to harboring doubts given that by the time the event rolls around, Lionel Messi will be aged 39.

In a recent YouTube-hosted interview, Messi left fans in suspense as he said, "I don't know if I will get there. I don't think about it yet because it is far away." Despite fan hopes and expectations, it seems the 2026 World Cup is not yet firmly on Messi's radar.

Speaking to Argentinian media personality Miguel Garrados, Messi disclosed that his immediate concentration is on the upcoming 2024 Copa America tournament, which is also set to take place in the United States. He remarked, "After the Copa America we'll see, it will depend on how I feel. There are still three years left."

The star footballer also expressed disappointment regarding his former club, Paris Saint-Germain. Messi claimed he received insufficient recognition at PSG after leading Argentina to triumph against France in the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. The seven-time Ballon d'Or winner's transfer to Inter Miami in Major League Soccer after expressing unhappiness at PSG has fans hopeful of seeing more from the iconic figure in the future.